Pahoa is a small town in the Puna district of the Big Island in Hawaii. It is located about 25 miles south of Hilo and is surrounded by the beautiful, rugged terrain of the Kaʻū Desert. Pahoa is the main commercial center of the lower Puna region, and offers a unique mix of rural, beach and town environments, creating a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere perfect for a first date.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk
A walk in one of the many parks in Pahoa offers a great first date opportunity. The Makuu Botanical Gardens is a great place to explore, with its lush gardens and diverse wildlife. Plus, it’s free! The nearby Pahoa Lagoon and Beach Park is also great for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. For a more challenging hike, the Akaka Falls Trail is a 4.4 mile round trip hike through a rainforest and is beautiful year-round.
2. Places for a Coffee Date
For a more traditional first date, grab a coffee or tea at one of Pahoa’s many cafes. Pahoa Caffe is a popular local spot that serves up great coffee and cold-pressed juices. For artisanal coffee drinks and pastries, try Pahoa Coffee Company. Or for something a little different, grab a cup of chai tea and a snack at Pahoa’s Urban Teahouse.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions
Discover Pahoa’s rich and vibrant culture on a date to one of the local galleries and museums. The Pahoa Cultural Center has rotating exhibitions of local art and artifacts, and regular presentations and demonstrations. The Pahoa Museum has artifacts from the area’s colorful history. And the Pahoa Visitor Center has a variety of displays and activities that offer insight into the area’s culture and history.
4. Live Music and Entertainment
Pahoa has a lively music and entertainment scene, with a variety of live music venues like the Pahoa Tavern and the Pahoa Music Hall. There are also regular open-mic nights at local pubs and bars, as well as touring musicians that come through the area.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants
For a casual, low-key first date, grab a drink or a bite to eat at one of Pahoa’s pubs, bars or restaurants. Kaleo’s Bar & Grill is a popular spot for burgers, salads and local craft beer. The Pahoa Bistro is a cozy spot for wood-fired pizza and an extensive wine list. Or for a romantic evening, try the Leilani Restaurant and Bar with its panoramic ocean views and fresh island cuisine.
6. Other Date Ideas
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can always take your date on a kayaking tour of the nearby Keawaiki Bay, or take a scenic bike ride down the Red Road Coastal Trail. And for some fun in the sun, head to the Pahoa Beach Park for a day of swimming, snorkeling and lounging in the sun.
